When visiting Osaka's liveliest shopping district, how could you miss Ebisu Bridge in Dotonbori? Spanning the Dotonbori River, Ebisu Bridge has existed since the Edo period. Its location near the pilgrimage route to Imamiya Ebisu Shrine, along with the area's history as a hub for theater and entertainment, helped it gradually develop into the bustling tourist center it is today. From the bridge, the classic Glico Running Man is the biggest eye-catcher. With his arms raised as he runs toward the finish line, he has long been an iconic image of Osaka. Visit during the day to experience the crowds and lively streets, while nighttime offers a completely different view. Neon signs light up on both banks and reflect on the river, making all of Dotonbori feel like a city that never sleeps. Of course, no trip to Osaka is complete without taking a classic photo with the Running Man from Ebisu Bridge!
Ebisu Bridge | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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L-Breath Shinjuku Store
The L-Breath Shinjuku Store is the spot for outdoor gear and goods, located just southeast of JR Shinjuku Station. Always innovative and ahead of the curve, this outlet reopened in November 2022 under direction from the Xebio Group. Known for its vast selection and knowledgeable staff, the store always draws the savviest of new and repeat customers.
It was my first time skiing in Japan, and I was really looking forward to it, but just getting all the gear ready was a headache. Before leaving, I visited several sporting goods stores in Taiwan but couldn't find any ski goggles I liked, so I decided to try my luck in Japan. L-Breath Shinjuku Store didn't disappoint. The store is spacious and has a wide selection of products, including ski goggles, padded shorts, and warm gloves. In the end, I found a pair of goggles I liked. Protecting your eyes while skiing is important, after all, so you can't be careless about your gear. It was a very successful shopping trip. Recommended for anyone looking for sporting goods.
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Ishinomaki Genki Ichiba
Along the Kitakami River, a 2-story market stands at the heart of Ishinomaki City. The merchandise section on the 1st floor provides fresh seafood from Ishinomaki Port.
The 3/11 earthquake and tsunami devastated Ishinomaki City in Miyagi Prefecture, destroying many businesses, factories, and workplaces. The local seafood processing industry also faced the challenge of losing its sales channels. To help local businesses rebuild their livelihoods while revitalizing commerce and tourism in central Ishinomaki, local companies and other related businesses worked together to develop this market.
Ishinomaki Genki Ichiba opened on June 30, 2017, primarily selling fresh local seafood, processed seafood products, agricultural products, and local specialties. It also has a dining area where visitors can try local Ishinomaki dishes. It is more than just a place to shop and eat; it also has a mission to help revive local industries, create jobs, and draw people back to the city center.
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A, La, Date Roadside Station
A large roadside station located along National Route 47 in Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture. With convenient access to Naruko Onsenkyo, one of Japan’s leading hot spring areas, it is a popular stop that attracts over 3 million visitors a year. Inside, you’ll find a souvenir shop, a farmers market, and dining options, where you can enjoy shopping for local ingredients and specialty products as well as local food.
After wrapping up our trip to Naruko Onsen and before heading to our next stop, we went out of our way to stop by A, La, Date Roadside Station to stock up on food. I didn't expect it to be such a treasure trove of local specialties! Inside, there were all kinds of local agricultural products, fresh fruits and vegetables, and souvenirs from Miyagi Prefecture. It was also convenient for picking up snacks for the road. What especially caught my eye were the edamame-flavored specialties. From cookies to all kinds of snacks, edamame was everywhere, and just looking at them made me want to pick out a few to try.
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